Arsenal's Marouane Chamakh says Premier League is leaving him battered and bruised

29 Nov 2010 09:48:47

Arsenal striker Marouane Chamakh has revealed he is struggling to cope with the rough and tumble of the Barclays Premier League.
Chamakh moved to the Gunners from Bordeaux on a free transfer in the summer but says playing in France is nothing compared to England.
He scored his 10th goal of the season in the 4-2 win over Aston Villa on Saturday but is suffering with neck and shoulder injuries and is set to be rested for tomorrow's Carling Cup home clash with Wigan.
Crocked: Marouane Chamakh is struggling with neck and shoulder problems
The Moroccan said: 'I was never been in such a state at Bordeaux. Things take on a new dimension here. Against West Ham I was in incredible pain with my neck.
'It was impossible to turn my head. Every ball that's contested here I get ploughed into - and the referee doesn't blow for it.
'When people pushed me in France, I fell down and got a free kick. When there's a hard tackle here, I have to get up and play.
'After a Premier League match, I walk off with my body aching, with scratch marks, stiff muscles. Three days later, we go again.'
Arsene Wenger planning a 'strong' Cup bid as Arsenal look to end five-year trophy drought Arsene Wenger in £10m raid for Bolton's England star Gary Cahill ARSENAL FC